Definition

Proper noun * Henry Fielding: An 18th-century English novelist and dramatist, renowned as a founder of the English novel. He is best known for his satirical and picaresque works that offer a vivid, humorous, and critical portrayal of contemporary society.

Usage

• Henry Fielding is primarily used to refer to the historical literary figure.
• It is used in discussions of English literature, literary history, satire, and the development of the novel as a form.

Examples

• As the subject of a sentence:
  • Henry Fielding wrote "Tom Jones," a classic of English literature.
  • The works of Henry Fielding provide a sharp critique of 18th-century politics and morals.
• In possessive form:
  • Henry Fielding's novel "Joseph Andrews" is a parody of Samuel Richardson's "Pamela."
  • Scholars study Henry Fielding's use of irony and narrative voice.

Advanced Usage

• "Fieldingesque" (adj): Resembling or characteristic of the works of Henry Fielding, particularly in terms of robust humor, sprawling narratives, and social satire.
  • The novel's comedic scope and colorful characters were distinctly Fieldingesque.

Variants and Related Words

• Fielding: A common shorthand for the author in literary criticism.
  • Fielding contrasts his realistic characters with the sentimental heroes of his time.

Synonyms

• The author of "Tom Jones": A common periphrastic reference.
• The novelist Henry Fielding: A clarifying phrase used for emphasis or introduction.

Noun

1. English novelist and dramatist (1707-1754)